Archdiocesan priest appears in court

Michael McKeaten – a priest in the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane – today appeared in Brisbane Magistrate’s Court charged with a sexual offence alleged to have occurred more than two decades ago.

The Archdiocese understands that this matter is not being treated as a child sex offence. The charge does not relate to his work in a Catholic school.

Michael McKeaten withdrew from ministry when he was charged earlier this month. The Archdiocese issued a public statement at the time to confirm the charge and the priest’s removal from ministry.

At today’s court appearance, the case was adjourned until July 3.

Any person raising allegations of abuse against any Church personnel is encouraged to contact police.

The Catholic Church in Queensland has a Professional Standards Office that assists people who come forward to make complaints. The complainants are provided with appropriate support and are encouraged to report the alleged abuse to police. The Professional Standards Office assists the complainant in going to police. The Professional Standards Office can be contacted on 1800 337 928.

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